Football Weekend

Last night we watched Va Tech and Arkansas. Tech forgot to show for the game and was down 0-24 at half time. The second half Arkansas was so confident of the win, they went home only to lose to Tech. What. A game!! Joel got his money's worth! He'll be happily driving home today. The Vols play today so we'll be watching that and tomorrow it's Clemson vs. OSU. I'll root for Clemson but am conflicted. Again..anyone's game, depending on which team shows up!! Today I'll be cooking..two meat loaves for the freezer and cheese straws for a snack....later

Rainy Morning

It should be moving out soon and since I need to go to the store to pick up things for the weekend, I'm hoping its gone by the time I leave. The movie yesterday, La La Land was different..not the type of musical I'm used to seeing. I ended up liking it, but Richard not so much. Prayers and support for Jimmy and Muir will be ongoing while we all will try to live a normal life when it is not normal for this family. Underneath it all we have aching hearts.....later

The Fight Begins

For Jimmy and Muir the real fight begins against that monster, melanoma, but their family and friends will be there with love and support. We all need to be there with prayers, hope and positive thoughts. I'll leave my post there today as nothing else I could say is insignificant!!...later

Lazy Day After Christmas

I really planned to do nothing but I did the laundry and this and that around here. I made an easy shepherd's pie for dinner that was a hit. Today it's raining and Richard is going to Wal-Mart. I'll be cleaning up around here some more and guess I'll do shrimp fried rice for dinner. I'll also be waiting for Muir's report on the oncology appointment for Jimmy. Needless to say that is on all of our minds..prayers needed!!....later

A Lovely Christmas

We really had such a fun time. Christmas Eve lunch at Hofbrau House was great and so much fun seeing JJ and Eva. They love each other and we all love seeing them have fun together. Christmas Eve at Muir and Jimmy's is the highlight of it all!! We were all tired on Christmas but had fun opening gifts. We ate breakfast and shortly after hit the road to home. Traffic was very light but had rain and fog in Kentucky. It cleared and turned sunny and warm. It was actually 70 here yesterday with more of the same today. I plan on having a relaxing day but have a lot of putting away to do....later

Happy Christmas Eve!!

I got up,showered and dressed so I would be ready to help with whatever needs to be done before we head to Haufbrau House for a fun, family lunch Wwhen we get back it will be last minute preparations for the evening. Muir made her lasagna yesterday. I've had my coffee and French cakes which I share with Sammie. I'm about to put together our breakfast casserole for tomorrow. Apparently, Madison had an asthma attack early this morning and ended up in the ER at Children's Hospital..okay now. Time for me to get busy...later

Happy in Cincinnati

Had a fun lunch yesterday at Red RObin with Anne and the kids. Got to Muir's around four and relaxed all evening. Jim was working so we didn't see him until this morning. Muir made a delicious Brunswick Stew and we spent the evening in front of the fireplace talking and watching Driving Miss Daisy which I hadn't seen since years ago when it first came out. Today I hope to be of help to Muir as she prepares for tomorrow night's feast. French cakes and coffee this morning and shared the French cakes with Sammie. Shower time...later

Off to Ohio

I hope to be on the road by 8. I'm up and dressed but Richard still in bed. I'll wake him in a few minutes. We'll have lunch with Anne and the kids before heading over to Muir's. Weather is chilly this morning but no rain and warming up. I may post from Muir's....later

Quiet Day

Really nothing going on. I ventured out as far as the deck to fill one of the feeders.. I'm in serious need of a few good books to read and would love to curl up with one. Today we'll head to the fresh market for food for Christmas day. I'll also be picking up ingredients for breakfast at Muir's before we head on home. Warming trend down here. Watched the Oprah interview with Michelle Obama. I, for one, will sorely miss that first family.  The last thing I want to see is the Trump family. It's like a cruel joke...later

Good Weekend

Mostly it was a very relaxing weekend. I got a haircut and finished up the shopping. I finished wrapping and did very little else. Mostly I sat around, read, listened to music and watched tv. I did do some baking and yesterday made turkey noodle soup. Jim and Tommie stopped by yesterday and that was our weekend. Today I'm doing laundry and will do abit of cleaning up. Tomorrow I need to go out and do a bit of food shopping for Christmas. We'll be leaving for Cincy on Thursday...later

Baking Cookies

By far not my favorite thing to do. Yesterday Richard said he'd like for me to make sugar cookies (I hate making these).Such a pain! Making the dough is easy but then rolling them out, baking them and the worst part..icing them. Richard said he would help but don't see how he will. Mine won't look anything like Carol Pfeiffer's!!! My husband also wants toll house cookies. Cookies are a pain to make! I did make the dough yesterdays so that is done. Cold here this morning. Yesterday our leaf man came but didn't finish. I guess he'll finish today. Tomorrow I have a haircut and hope to finish my Christmas shopping....later

Good Movie

Manchester by the Sea delivered..but..a tear jerker so be warned. Casey Afleck was great and loved the music. We also had lunch at Rafferty's and got to see Hannah and give her the gift. When she saw us she was excited and said this was a good day because two of her favorite couples were there! The movie was longer than I thought it would be and traffic was crazy coming home along with annoying rain but we need it so can't complain..at least it's not snow...later

Lunch and Movie

Lots of movies showing now that we want to see but our choicest will be Manchester by the Sea. We'll also hit Rafferty's for lunch and hope Hannah is working as we got her a little gift. Other than that a few other stops. I really need to tie up my Christmas shopping and hope to finish that by week's end!! Yesterday was rainy and there may be more today but hope it won't be heavy. There was a crossword I was doing recently and the clue was "jeez", the answer was dear God. I told Richard he would be hearing me say that frequently as Trump keeping who we knew he was!! You just can't make up the crap that comes out of his ugly mouth!!....later

Rain and Shopping

These things don't mix but I need to do it. I'm also frustrated with people who don't answer my call about what they want for Christmas!!On happier thoughts..it was  nice weekend. I figured wished the decorating Friday so reallyrelaxed all weekend.Yesterday we happened onto Jordan Smith on PBS and his Christmas album. He won the Voice last year but I don't watch and hadn't heard him. He was on Harry Conick's program last week and he sang the Grinch song and killed it so I decided to listen to him yesterday for just a song or two. We ended up watching the whole program. He is amazing and has more than just a great voice. He has great phrasing, really delivers on jazz as well as any other genre. I think he'll go places!!...later

Time for the Tree

This time tomorrow I'll be looking at my decorated tree. I'll be glad when it is done! I brought in wood for a nice fire this evening and Richard will be making egg nog. I did play a couple of Christmas ads the other day and need to take a few out to the car. Gatlinburg is opening to the public today and they are hoping for a lot of people to spur that economy. When we first moved here we visited up there frequently but while we do visit the park, we rarely go to Gatlingburg. Hoping all goes well there. They have two teens in custody for starting the Chimney Tops fire but no info on that due to their age....later

Long Day for the Family

Yesterday Jim (Muir's husband) had his biopsy and all went well with no complications and that hurdle is over. We know it is cancer following his melanoma diagnosis two years ago but have to wait for the next phase. I know one thing...he has a strong support system and lots of people praying. I and all of us will be sending positive vibes his way.  The fight is on...damn cancer!!...cold here and getting colder. Tomorrow we'll decorate the tree!!...later

Progress Made

After dropping Richard off for his appointment yesterday I headed to Target and made progress on Christmas shopping. Then got rum for future eggnog, Kroger to pick up a few things and Walgreen to pick up prescription. I headed back to pick up Richard expecting to have to park and wait, but as I drove to the entrance he came out. Thankfully, we headed home amidst heavy rain. That proved to be a challenge. A huge tree had fallen across Wildwood Road and had taken a telephone pole with it. I was right in front of a driveway so turned around and took an alternate route. Glad to get home and have lunch. Rain ending today and a fairly mild day before a big drop in temperature tomorrow. ....later

Errands and Such..

Richard has his yearly drs.appointment this morning so I'll drop him off and then do errands. It's raining again but we still need it so I can't complain. The house is finally decorated except for the tree. That will go up in the next few days. Yesterday I got a start on my Christmas cards. I'll finish those tomorrow. We got our first one yesterday. ....later

Rain!!

We got more rain yesterday and lots of it. I don't think it stopped at all. That should really help alleviate our deficit. The outdoor decorations are up and I got a lot of the inside done..The tree will be up by the weekend. Richard has a drs. appointment tomorrow so I'll drop him off and get some Christmas shopping done while he's there.....later

New Chair

Richard finally found a chair that works. The guys at the store were very accommodating and were able to make the exchange of chairs yesterday. Today's Plans...I'm going grocery shopping and then I'll help Richard put the Christmas lights on the deck. Tomorrow and Sunday I'll decorate the house. It's cold here this morning and I'm looking forward to a nice, cozy fire this evening.....later

Little by Little

Things getting done..New garbage disposal installed yesterday, both of us had teeth cleanings yesterday. We also got over 4 inches of rain yesterday which was a God send but more needed. Today we'look for a new chair as a replacement for the one delivered Tuesday. It just didn't work and I'm hopeful we'll find the right one. I'm not sure why Richard didn't realize why this wasn't right in the store but it had been a long day and this was the third place we had tried. I have been using this chair for the past two days and I agree...Nice but chilly day expected today....later

Blessed Rain

I awoke this morning to thunder and lightning.It was a wonderful sound. The rain is currently very heavy. I'm not sure when it started but it came too late to save the many structures to say nothing about the park itself. It is just incredibly sad to see the devastation to our beautiful Smokey Mountains.about 140 homes have been destroyed. The volunteer spirit is alive and a lot of rebuilding will take place. Westgate Resort with 100 buildings was destroyed. It was a beautiful resort and Richard worked there until he retired. Lots of memories....later

Tragedy in East Tennessee

I woke up to rain and the tragedy in Gatlinburg!!! The elementary school has burned down along with Arrowmont Scool for the Arts, Westgate Resort and 30 other structures now on fire. Dollywood okay so far. They are calling this the worst disaster since Katrina. I can't even believe it. I'm worried about our friends up there. One of them lives on a farm with many animals and I haven't heard if she is safe. She works (worked now) at Westgate. So, so sad!!

Happy Birthday, Muir!!

Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all day !  I don't know where to start but rain coming will be a happy start. It's expected tonight and then more significant rain later this week. Richard's new chair coming tomorrow. He should have gotten one a long time ago. We exchanged chairs yesterday and had I done this much earlier, I would have insisted on a new chair. His chair is totally broken down! Also, we'll be getting our new garbage disposal installed. Let me just say that I am totally spoiled..being without one for the past few days totally upsets my day. Before the rains and wind comes, I'll be heading out to the post office, pharmacy and getting gas for Richard's car. I'm trying to think of what to make for dinner..tired of Turkey....later

Black Friday

Black in more ways than one..Garbage disposal took a hit as I was cleaning up last night. I turned it on and quickly off as I realized something that didn't belong there was in it. It was a metal starter. I got the gizmo to release it but it wouldn't budge. So today we'll be calling a plumber and likely buying a disposal. Richard's chair broke so we'll also be shopping for a new one. I NEVER shop on black Friday but will be forced to this year. On the bright side..nice Thanksgiving with Tommie and Jim. Meal was good, good conversations and Jim fixed my light over the sink and also installed Facebook on my phone. After they left we cleaned up most of the Kitchen (I still have pots and pans to wash by hand) and then watched Polyanna on PBS. Time for more coffee....later

Tennessee Bus Crash

Seatbelts!!!There was a bill sent to the Tennessee legislature to put seatbelt in all school buses. It never got out of committee because of cost! Damn the cost..these are our children. Hard to believe. A lot of parents are unable to drive their children to school but those who can provide their own transportation should do it!..Today I'll be doing my stuffing, and yes, I stuff my turkey. My mother and grandmother stuffed the turkey and we all lived. I'll make enough that I'll also have extra that won't go into Mr. Turkey. We are supposed to get more rain today. Any amount is more than welcome. To all those travelling, safe trips. Just happy we're staying put...later

Frustrated

No matter how old they are, it's very painful when your children are hurting and you can do nothing. Muir and Jim are facing the unknown with Jim's diagnosis. We are all praying and hopeful for the best news possible!!..Nothing new here. Today I'll make the cranberry sauce and do some cleaning since Carolyn didn't show up yesterday..not sure why but guessing she forgot. Love watching our birds and happy we left the fountain up. Squirrels and bird alike are drinking a lot and with our drought there are no natural sources nearby for water....later

Very Cold!

From high 70s last week to low 20s now. Today Carolyn is coming to clean. I may send Richard to the store to finish up my Thanksgiving shopping if his back/hip is okay. If not I'll go tomorrow. The little bit of Rain we had Saturday morning did little for the drought. It did bring more leaves down so I'll blow off the deck again and also get the chairs covered. The fires continue and arson is being investigated for several of them. It's hard to believe the number of sick people out there. Walland is  the community just next to us and the fire there is very close to the school there so it has been closed since last Thursday. We can't see the fire but we are still getting a lot of smoke.....later

Wins and Losses

Most of our teams had wins! Tennessee had a great game and Lthough they won, LSU lost so we didn't win the sec east. Clemson, Auburn, and Va Tech all won. Sadly, EVa lost to Oklahoma. We had our first fire last night and we'll have another tonight. It's mighty cold here this morning and I'm not looking forward to going down to get the newspapers. As predicted, the squirrel was the first to find the bird seed and it was almost dark before a bird showed up. Richard predicted the first would be a chickened and I predicted a farmhouse. We were both wrong..it was a wren. Two showed up. Time for more coffee..later

Rain, Glorious Rain!

It was nice while it lasted but we're greedy and want more!! The rain stopped and our power went off..not sure why but after 45 minutes we left to get some breakfast and a supply of bird seed. When we got back power was on. We haven't filled the feeders yet but will this afternoon. I have a pot of bean soup working and brought in logs for a nice fire this evening. It's already getting colder so that's perfect. Things are topsy turvy..I'm dressed but haven't had my shower so will do that shortly. I can't wait to see what bird shows up first. I also have to check and see if I have any suet in the downstairs frig. Go Vols, Tech, Auburn, Clemson,. OSU and W VA and LSU. Florida must lose!!....later

Fires Close to Home

The latest fire is in our county and not that far from here. It closed a county school yesterday and is close to the kennel where we took Baxter. As I look toward the mountains I can see heavy smoke. The computers should be visible soon.  We're not in danger, but still too close. Possible rain tonight but less than half an inch but hope we at least get that. Yesterday I blew off the deck and got a few more fall stuff done. I'm hoping to have a fire this weekend if it does actually get chilly enough. Yesterday it was 77 here and much of the same today. Happy Weekend!!....later

Our Air Quality

I really wasn't paying much attention but yesterday the warning was for everyone. I was noticing and smelling all of the smoke and the sad side of that is that many of the fires around are suspected to be arson. Sick! It was warm here so I had my Windows down while driving. On my way home I started coughing and then got a nose bleed when I got home. Things apparently somewhat better today. ..Sleepwise
 woke up at two feeling like I had had 8 hours. I did go back to sleep and got up at 5:30....later

Welcome Back, Muir

Musgrave up her blog after the election but recent personal circumstances gave her reason to start again. She has been e-mailing me but I still missed her blog. Due to Jimmy's recent health change due to his melanoma I took a chance and checked her blog status this morning. I was overjoyed to find it up again.We are all encouraged and will continue to hope and pray!!I slept well but just felt at sixes and sevens this morning but feel better after reading her blog!...Did some of my Thanksgiving shopping yesterday. Mr. Tom Turkey (16 pounds worth) is resting in my downstairs frig...My phone's are down..Still have my cell phone. Will deal with that soon....later
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Thanksgiving Shopping

I'll be getting our turkey and most of the other fixings for our Thanksgiving meal. I also hope to start a bit of Christmas shopping. ..We did see the super moon last night and glad the smoke didn't impede our view. Still Smokey and warm here. I'm definitely ready for cooler weather and we still haven't had a fire yet. Concern about Trump still permeates and likely will for a good long time!!....

Transition

After a devastating loss on Tuesday we move on. I can't really explain how I felt on Wednesday morning but Joel said he felt much like he did on 9/11. That is how Richard and I felt. Now we get better bit by bit. Life goes on and we adjust. Tonight we have a super moon to see and hope smoke and clouds will not prevent our seeing it. Still no sign of rain and while chilly now, warmer temps in the forecast. Richard got the wood up yesterday and I'm anxious to put a fire in the fireplace soon. Little by little things get done. Disappointing weekend for football but Vols did win!...later

Cold and Getting Colder

Frost all around but not here..yet. Yesterday I disconnected all of the hoses and brought in one of my larger plants with one more to go but too heavy for me. Richard will get that before tomorrow when it's supposed to be even colder. My chores today will all be inside. Our big issue in and around Knoxville is the drought. We are 8 inches below the water table. Chattanooga is much worse at 16  inches. There are also fires around. Early in the week this area was very Smokey! No rain in the forecast and leaves still hanging on and not much color..mainly brown.....later

Yesterday.....Today

I was devastated yesterday! I got up but didn't want to, got my coffee but refused to turn on the tv. I was in a foul mood and sorry that Madison was here on this occasion. Richard tried to reassure me but that wasn't working. I woke Madison at 7:45 because she had to get on the road for her 1:30 class. I finally got myself together and knew I had to get out of the house and do something. Richard suggested Knoxville, Rafferty's and our favorite waitress, Hannah. She was also a Hillary supporter but her smile helped. After lunch we went to Sam's and I supplied our larder. We had a nice evening at home and I'm much better today. I have to hope and pray that our country and our people will survive and that Trump (I can't attach president to his name) will be reasonable and drop the negativity that surrounds him...Today we need to go to Lowe's and I need to deal with the food we got yesterday and get it ready for the freezer....later

Just at sixes and Sevens!

I just read Muir's blog and it was so inspiring and insightful. She put it beautifully and I truly hope she continues her blog. I knew I would be down if we lost and Richard tried to assure me that we would survive, but it's going to take a lot to get me feeling hopeful at this point. We can only pray that the hatefulness displayed in this campaign will stop and we can start healing. I know I need to get out of this house today and do something positive.....later

American Voters

All I can say is that American voters are as stupid as I thought they were. Now we can watch our country fall apart piece by piece. ....l

Worried but Hopeful

Please just get me through this nightmare!! I won't rest until I know for certain the outcome. We'll be voting mid morning and then need to stop at the pharmacy and Kroger's. I'll be making chili for dinner and anxious to spend some time with Madison!! We've been watching Morning Joe this morning. I was up at five and Richard not far behind me. I'm not sure if it's the time change that's the cause of this early rising but I'd prefer to sleep longer especially since winter is coming. I did put flannel sheets on yesterday and my bed was very comfy last night!!....later

Weather

It's been really chilly the last few mornings and I turned on heat to warm up the house. Yesterday afternoon I just couldn't get warm a.d last night while I wasn't really cold, I was thinking it is about time for winter sheets and our down comforter. I'll do that today and Carolyn is coming to clean today. My vegetable soup last night was delicious as always and I always think of Grandma Simpson when I make it. She gave me her recipe when I first got married. Looking forward to tomorrow when Madison will spend the night on her way back to Clemson after her fall break!!...later

Sweet Potato Fries

I made sweet potato fries to go with our sausage sandwiches and both were resoundingly successful according to Richard. He loved them both and he has been anti sweet potato anything for a long time. Here is how to achieve very crispy fries..
Peel and slice potatoes pretty thin..put into baggie and coat lightly with 2 tbs corn starch..shake off excess corn starch and put into a bowl and drizzle with ghee or evoo (ghee is best and can be bought at Trader Joe's)...put on a sheet pan that is covered with parchment paper (foil or anything else won't work)....bake at 400 for 35 minutes. I also sprinkled mine with Lowry's seasoned salt and they were perfect!#! We loved them! Chilly mornings here. I've put heat on the last two mornings to heat the house. Not used to time change yet..got up at 4:45.....later
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Getting Things Done

It is just so weird but both Richard and I are having trouble getting used to being home after 3 weeks on the road. I did get some laundry done and I am all unpacked..Richard has yet to unpack. I also went to the store. Today I need to blow off the deck and I think Richard wants to go to Wal-Mart but he also has an appointment with his entomologist. Football tomorrow but I haven't checked to see what teams are playing, etc....later

Home Sweet Home!

Got home about 3:30, unpacked the car, etc. and am now enjoying a glass of wine and watched Obama speak in North Carolina. He was fired up!!# The drive home was fine but don't know when I've seen so many trucks on I-75! Hope the Cubs can pull off a win but if Indians win I really won't be disappointed. I really like them and most of my family will root for them.It's just that the dry spell has been longer for the Cubs. My dad was at the 1948 series when Cleveland last one. They played the Boston Braves. I was a Cleveland fan and my sister was a Braves fan. Daddy brought us both a pennant for our team. Mine had the entire Indians roster on it and the one I remember was Bob Feller. It stayed on my bedroom wall until my dad died and Mother got rid of the house. Wish I had it now!!.....later

Sweet, Happy Eva

She looked so cute going to school in her Ariel costume and was so excited. I'm so glad we were here to share the day. Several years ago I was at Anne's and got to see Madison as Dorothy and Max as the Cowardly Lion! Today in Columbus a nice, warm day near 80. Tomorrow we head home. It's been a fun trip but I'm ready for home sweet home....later

Great to be at Maggie's

Eva dressed up as Aerial for school today and looked precious. She was so excited! We had a harrowing drive for most of the w at from Niagara Falls to Columbus. Heavy rain and fog dominated the drive. Everything here is so comfortable..love being here. Home on Wednesday....later

Kindle problem

Not sure if my battery is going but it won't charge so no more posts. On our way shortly to Niagara Falls. Hoping weather won't be an issue. No snow here and we're headed south but that's no guarantee....
Later

Electronics!!

My tablet won't charge beyond 32 percent, Richard's lap top needs   New battery and our boom box died. It is cold and snowy here in Lake Placid getting all the way to 42 today. We had a good lunch in a neat pub overlooking Mirror Lake. The down side was the price of our beers..$12. Per beer! They were good but come on...This motel is very nice..meets most of our needs. If posts stop..it's my tablet...later

Too Cold!!!

We first saw snow around The White Mountain area of New Hampshire.none on the roads and...May I just say I'm tired of seeing "moose crossing" signs! For several years I've been hoping to see one..nothing and we've been everywhere they live! ..I wanted to take a picture of the snow but was driving so couldn't. We're in Montpellier now and disappointed that the leaves are mostly gone. We'll go to Stowe and Waterville today where we'll stop aT Ben and Kerry's. Tomorrow we leave for Lake Placid...later

Last Day in Maine

We had lunch again at Geddy's..same waitress. It was sad and I teared as we left. I'm pretty sure this will finally be our last trip up here. After leaving we went to the laundromat in Southwest Harbor and then drove one last time on the park loop road. It was foggy and misting but the leaves were as vibrant as ever and it was so typically Maine with the angry waves breaking on the Rocky coast. I have always loved fall but until you've seen New England in the fall, you haven't seen the ultimate fall leaf beauty. I am so glad we finally got here in the fall!!!! Tomorrow we head to Vermont for 3 days....later

Last Full Day in Bar Harbor

Shower taken, no rain at the moment. We'll be having lunch again at Geddy's and then head to Southwest Harbor to do laundry. Not sure what games are on Today but we'll watch, but will definitely watch and pray for the Cubs tonight. Tomorrow we pack the car and head to Vermont....later

Rain Next Few Days

No rain yesterday and drove all around ending our exploring at an ice cream shop in Bar Harbor. Today we'll hang out here awhile and then to Town for lunch at Geddy's. It's out all time favorite bar anywhere. I know I'll be having a lobster roll and Richard will either have that or Whole lobster...I can't even explain my sleep pattern here. Last night I went to sleep at 9:30 and woke this morning at 6:50! At home I'm doing well to get 7 hours. Oh well...time to throw on some clothes and run out to the breakfast area and get some milk for Richard...later

Rain Coming In

Rain expected here late today and staying until Sunday when we leave Maine for Vermont and that sucks. Now for debate comments. I just have to say that I am so sick of seeing his ugly, lying face. Fact checks showed that. Trump lied 70 percent while Clinton 27 percent. PLEASE!!! Get this campaign over. Yesterday was a beautiful, sunny day and our lunch at Jordan's Pond was just as anticipated. We did eat out on the lawn. Unfortunately, the beautiful summer flowers have gone to bed until next year but still a magical place. Time for coffee and getting this day started and get as much done as possible before the rains come in. ....later

Chilly and DampDrive

Drive yesterday was long because we chose to get off 95 and take 1 seeing quaint towns and awesome fall foliage. We also stopped at a small seaside place for lunch where we both had the yummiest clam chowder ever. We got to out motel at 5:44 and it was already dark here. A big problem when we got to our room..We had booked a handicap room over a month ago and had a regular room. After some angry words we were told to stay here last night and they found us another place for the rest of the week. Richard needs a handicap shower so they assured this new place is equally nice...we'll see. I slept like the dead..went to bed at 9  and at 7:15 Richard asked if I was going to ever get up? Had a great shower and will go for breakfast soon.....later

We Have Arrived!!

One of our favorite places on earth! It was a long drive but no problems. I'll try to do a long blog tomorrow. Now tired and happy to be here. Relaxing in my PhD with a glass of wine....later

So Much to Say

I'm blogging from my bed in the motel in Connecticut. We'll be driving to Bar Harbor today. The weekend was great...a beautiful wedding.. I'll hit on all that's been going on later. Now it's shower time for me if Richard ever gets out of the bathroom..le

Rough Start

I never start a trip off on a happy note! Richard after all of these years together that when I say, "On the road by 8:00, I don't mean 8:05!" It's now 7:40 and I'm waiting for him to get his meds, computer, toiletries ready so I can take them down and finish packing the car! To top that off he didn't sleep much last night so I'll be doing most of the driving..an 8 hour drive. Still waiting....later

Tons To Do!

Lots to do since we'll be gone for 3 weeks. Richard actually wants to go to lunch today to say goodbye to our favorite waitress. He totally underestimates how long it will take to get everything done, especially given the fact that we both move more slowly tanned we used to and...not sure how his hip will be today!!! Other than that..the nice weather continues!...later

Trip Preparation

I got laundry and ironing done yesterday. Today i'll be going to the library to pick up a book to listen to and will start the packing. Richard gets his cortisone shot this morning and hopes for quick relief. The pain has been intense in his right hip..We got a sweet call from Eva last night. Can't wait to see that cutie at the end of our trip!!....later

The Debate

Hillary was as I expected..calm and steady Trump also as I expected..whiney and petulant. When he was asked a question she sat and listened. Not so when she had the door..he paced and growled. About what I expected. Get this campaign and election over with!! It will be a busy week as we get ready to leave for our trip north..Lots of things to get done....later

I've Got Nothing!

Enjoying the cooler weather and watching hurricane news and hoping it won't impact our travels coming up next week. I'll start getting clothes together, seeing what needs washed or ironed, etc. this weekend. Scary football game on Saturday for The Vols as they play The Aggies. Two undefeated teams but I fear this will be our first loss....later

Loving the Weather

Another nice day! Got the car checked over and all is good with that. We also got our flu shots and the grass was cut, maybe for the last time and I'm pretty sure the hummingbirds have left. I haven't seen one for several days. I also got the last of my flower pots emptied. My indoor plants are still outside and I'm thinking all leave them there until we get home. Watched the VP debates last night..about what I expected..
.....later

Sleep Issues

Sunday night Richard slept in bed all night and last night he made it through most of the night. He did get up once but came back to bed and hopefully is asleep now. This morning we'll take our car in for a checkup to make sure all is fine for our upcoming trip. We'll also get our flu shots this morning while we're out. Time for coffee....later

Exciting Football

Some near losses turned into great wins from The Vols and Clemson. It was also a beautiful weekend, weather wise. Another nice day today. I got my closets switched on Saturday so clothes wise I am ready for cool/cold weather. Richard has been having lots of sleep issues and has spent several days sleeping in the great room. He ends up watching tv and not much sleep leading to napping during the day and then another sleepless night. Yesterday I kept him awake and he finally spent the whole night in bed. He's still asleep so I'm hoping this crazy pattern is broken.....later

Real Time with Bill Maher

Last night's program was especially good. Two of his guests were Sean Penn and Sarah Silverman..need I say more? I look forward to this show every Friday. It's on HBO so if you are a liberal Democrat you will like the variety of guests. One of them was part of Trump's campaign. Hard for me to understand how any sane, intelligent person could be for Trump!!....later

Busy Thursday

I had errands yesterday morning and got home about lunchtime. After lunch we headed out to test the ramp and Richard's scooter on our car. We just left our street when an sub hit the ramp. We pulled over but he took off. I got out and looked seeing no damage so we went on. When we got home we took the scooter off and then attempted to close the ramp. That's when we discover the ramp was bent from that idiot who hit us. We worked for a long time trying to fix it. Finally I came inside but Richard kept at it. One issue he couldn't fix so he's headed to Knoxville to have the people who installed it fix the problem. Today I'll do a bit of baking and start on my closest. A win for Bengals last night. I didn't watch much of the game but kept tabs on the score. Tennessee has a tough game tomorrow with Georgia at Georgia. I'll be watching while I change my closets....later

Heading Out Soon

I'll be heading to Wal-Mart soon. This is a morning I'd welcome my heated seats but I won't be taking my car but Richard's car which doesn't have that option. It is mighty chilly this morning so will bring out the long pants and long sleeved shirt. Almost hesitated about switching on the heat in the house this morning but held off on that. Time to get moving....later

Deliciously Chilly Morning

I have the heat on in my chair and snuggled with my quilt. Yes, the door to the deck is opened and it's still pitch dark outside. Yesterday we went to Knoxville to pick up a few things and get lunch. I soon need to get my closers changed. That will happen on Saturday and then starting to get things ready for our trip. No leaf changing down here yet. I guess there has been the start of some change in the mountains. Our own yard is mainly pine trees and oaks. Oaks just turn brown. Our deck is full of acorns and pine cones. I'll blow it off this afternoon after we get back from the gym....later

Typical Trump

More lies, interrupting and bragging. Hillary was the usual profess, calm person we are used to. I was disappointed that Lester did nothing about Trumps constant interruptions and going over the time allotted. Oh well..moving on. We're going to Knoxville today and..we finally got rain and cooler temperatures. Today and the rest of the week will give us the hint of fall...later

Good Weekend

We started watching The Vols Saturday and they looked awful! I watched for awhile and it was so painful and disappointing that I switched to other games. At half time the score was 21-3. I gave up! Later I decided to take one last look and thought I was seeing things..they were ahead!!! I watched to the happy ending where they won by 10 points. They have 3 more very tough games all in a row..
Georgia and Texas A and M away followed by Alabama at home. Go Vols!!! Bengals disappointed yesterday. Another happy win on Saturday was Auburn and others. Last night we watched the new season of Poldark..loved it. Can't wait for next week. Tonight the debate. It's anyone's guess what will come out of Trump's mouth. I'm pretty sure he'll be spewing out more outrageous lies...we'll see....later

TGIF

That should mean nothing to us but it does..I guess it's psychological. I still follow old Friday evening customs of no planned dinner but planned snacking. Sometimes it's pizza. Not sure about tonight. I'll ask Richard for suggestions when he gets up. The Vols play the Gators tomorrow. We are on an 11 year losing streak and I would love a win, but even though we have 3 wins this year, they haven't played that well. We are still seeing way too many penalties and fumbles. We certainly have the talent but something is missing. Still hopeful. Well, it happened again!! Our credit card was compromised again!# That's the second time this year. We spent a big chunk of yesterday afternoon informing people of the new info. At least our bank is on the ball about this.....later

Good Riddance, Summer, Welcome Fall

My second favorite season will arrive shortly after 10 this morning. Spring is by far my favorite. It usually arrives early in east Tennessee, showing hints in February. Winter here is typically rainy and dreary with very little snow but we usually can enjoy a glorious spring from March through May and often into early June before the heat arrives. Fall is also very nice but not as pretty as fall further north. We don't get the diversity of colors you see in the north. Richard and I will get to see the fall in New England when we travel there after McClain's wedding in October. Can't wait!....later

Last Day of Summer!!

Summer is not my favorite season! When I was a young mother with kids I loved summer. It meant no more carpooling, no schedules, instead fun at home with pool time, summer camp, Put-in- Bay, cow camp, picnics, etc. When I was working it was vacations and fun camping trips. Now it means hot weather..period!. I can travel anytime and do what I please whenever I please. The summer pleasures of the past are now fond memories. ....later

Responding

I always read Muir's blog in the morning and then usually do mine. This morning she brought up the subject of teacher forties vs those we deal with who are challenges. We are normal human beings so of course we have favorites. The challenge is always trying to be fair. Believe me when I say that teaching special ed is a Challenge of its own. I had favorites but there are kids who are simply put hard to find their good points. In my years of teaching I can only think of one that I felt that way about and I had many "unlikable". One was actually a neo Nazi but while a challenge to deal with, I really liked him. So, Muir..just know you are not alone. On the home front..lovely day here yesterday. I just can't wait until fall. I was going to change my closest this weekend but will put that off for awhile...later

Ho Hum Weekend

The most exciting event of the weekend was the much needed train. We got a tasting of it on Saturday evening but quite a bit yesterday. The Vols had another win but nothing to crow about with 5 fumbles and 9 penalties. I think the losses are just ahead with Gators on Saturday followed by Georgia, Texas A an M and Alabama. Their playing so far hasn't been great which it needs to be for those teams. Clemson had a big win but Auburn lost as did the Bengals. Fall arrives on Thursday but no sign of cooler weather down here. Looking forward to some new tv shows starting this week...later

PBS

Thank God for some of the great shows on PBS!! Last night we watched Art21. It was about art in the 21st century..last night it highlighted artists in Chicago and it blew us away. The genius we watched was so amazing and encouraging. The next episode shows Mexico City artists. Of course there are tons of other wonderful and so worthwhile shows that excite us. I guess that was the highlight of our Friday evening. We ended it with Bill Maher on HBO who has been off for 5 weeks..Football today...later

Nothing...

Nothing going on..Today will be normal Friday..gym after lunch, normal evening with one addition. Bill Maher is finally back after a month away. Saturday will also be typical with college football. I've decided next weekend will be when I change my closest from spring/summer to fall/winter. Still no cooler weather in site. This is getting ridiculous!!....later

Clean House

Carolyn was here yesterday and we're nice and clean once again. I'm thinking of retiring some of me summer decor and getting out my fall things. I'll be getting busy getting ready to leave soon so should get it done now. I also have to think about putting my summer clothes away. I'll definitely be needing cold weather clothes when we head to New England. Today I need to head to UPS store to take a package to return also a few things from grocery store....later

More Planning

I think our plans to head north after McClain's wedding are nearly complete. Our final leg after Lake Placid will take us through Niagara Falls to Columbus where we'll stay with Maggie before heading home....Carolyn coming to clean today Nothing else to note....later

Campaign

I have a few things to say about this long and trying campaign. Yes, I'm still for Hillary but not happy about so many things. Why do the Clinton's keep shooting themselves in the foot?!? From the beginning I supported Hillary but now wish Joe Biden was our nominee. Under no circumstances would I ever vote for Trump!# Now he's on her about her "deplorable" comment. While I agree that comment was a huge mistake, he.seems to dismiss all of the Deplorable comments he has made!..moving to more pleasant things..our plans for October are taking shape...later

The weekend and Beyond

Football is back so we watched Tennessee and Virginia Tech on Saturday and I watched The Bengal game yesterday. So glad to see Tennessee finally playing well. The Bengals eked out a win but it was a nail biter...Now for fall plans. We head to Virginia on October 13th for McClain's wedding. We will stay with Tim and Steff except on wedding day and night and then back to Tim's after brunch on Sunday at Jeff and Becky's. On Monday after the wedding we will head toward Maine. It will take us 2 days to get to Bar Harbor. We'll stay there 5 days and then head to Vermont and finally to The Adirondacks before heading home. Every time we go to Maine we say, "This will be out last trip up here", but we just keep going back. It is definitely one of our favorite places on earth! Today..the usual. Now it's coffee time...later

Haircut Time

Will head out in an hour to get my haircut. Yesterday we had lunch at Rafferty's and then to the movies. We saw Hell and High High Water. I wasn't sure I would like it but should have trusted that anything with Jeff Bridges is worth seeing. I can't speak for everything he's done but I have really liked his movies of the recent past. This one did not disappoint. Chris Pine was also good as was the other actor whose name I forget..not someone I've seen before...Looking forward to Saturday college football and The Bengals on Sunday. We rarely get them here but if any NFL game is telecast in our area, they run current scores of other games across the bottom of the screen so I can keep up.  Safe travels today for Maggie and Charlie. Muir will be watching Eva in Columbus.....later

Movie Day

We'll head to Knoxville later for lunch and the movie which we postponed from Tuesday until today. Also a stop at Publix on the way home. Nothing else going on for us. I did pull some plants out yesterday and will do more in the next few days. Hoping for some cooler weather in the next few days..more than ready for fall...later

Jobs For Summer's End

Muir mentioned something in her blog that I Also need to do..pull my sad flowers from their pots. I'll do some of that today. I still have a few that are fine so I'll leave them alone for awhile. My herbs are thriving and basil is the only one that dies with the first frost. Humming birds are still around but not as active. I made more food yesterday which should last until they leave for good usually in mid October. We ended up putting off the movie and lunch until tomorrow. I got packages to Caroline and Madison mailed yesterday. Another hot one today but a lovely cool morning....later

Lazy Long Weekkend

Lots of football watching and cooler weather. The heat returned yesterday, but cooler weather next weekend. We're headed to Knoxville for lunch and a movie later. We're going to see Hell or High Water. It got some great reviews so hope it lives up to them. Nothing else going on....later

Vols Win

Well, they won but they certainly didn't live up to all of the hype. Not sure who to blame at this point. I know the talent is there but it didn't show last night. They played a good team and were fortunate to win! It's much cooler this morning so that's good. I had a very confusing dream and woke up confused. To top that off when I turned the light on by my chair it blew. Not ready to cope with stuff that early. Now for some coffee...later

Go Vols!!

So excited for tonight's game!! A Thursday night game is a first for the Vols and will be a real headache for Knoxville! Game Day plus working people dealing with the traffic will not be pretty. Nothing on our agenda today but possible rain predicted. It's a good weekend approaching with lots of football to watch. The Auburn/ Clemson game and others we're excited about!!....later

Cool weather and Football

Both are on my he way! The Vols play their first game tomorrow..Appy State. It should be an easy win, but who knows. The nice weather should appear by Friday.  Richard got his cortisone shot yesterday and I ran errands and also stopped at Democratic HQ in Maryville. I got some Hillary stuff and sat and chatted for awhile. I may donate some time..I said I would....later

Hot Day

So ready for summer to be over! This morning it is cool and that feels delicious. Richard has an appointment at the hospital to get a cortisone shot in his hip and I'm going to head to the store. When we get back home we'll go to lunch at Captain D's. Richard got a freebie coupon for his birthday which is still good. That's the exciting news here.....later

Unrelenting Heat

Just so tired of this oppressive heat! It's all I can do to be outside long enough to water. We did have rain and scary wind on Friday but nothing else. The weekend was ho hum but thanks to Maggie for making us aware to Poldark. Last night PBS had a program about last season and wetting our appetite for the upcoming season. All I can say about it is that it is right up my alley.I'm not sure how I missed it last year. Just a few days ago I was thinking about missing Downton Abbey and wondering what could possibly replace it..well, I found it! Nothing happening today. My back has been acting up so plan to rest it today....later

Sweet PhoneCall

I'll start with a sweet thing before climbing onto my soapbox. Eva called yesterday to thank us for her outfit. She said she would be wearing the pants on Halloween topped with her Hello Kitty Halloween shirt. She went on to talk about school and recess. The pants are black with silver spider webs all over and I got a plain black shirt to go with them....Now Donald Trump gets crazier and more absurd by the moment.  I was watching Morning Joe with a panel of Republicans and Democrats. They all think he is nuts and has run the Republican Party into the ground. His latest new hire to his campaign is beyond is beyond belief!!Moving on...trip to the dentist went well and relieved that is over. Happy Weekend!!....later

Issuing a Challenge

This challenge is for Maggie and Muir. Richard and I watch That 70s Show which we get on Pop tv. We watch at 5 0o'clock. At the beginning of the show they show a license plate and Eric shouts something. I want you to listen to what he shouts. Richard and I disagree on what he's shouting. Therein lies the challenge...Heat is back and I have my dentist appointment this afternoon which they rescheduled from Tuesday. Nothing else going on down here....later

Cancelled Appointment

I got a call yesterday morning that the dentist had to be out of the office and the hygienist couldn't give the injection when he wasn't there so appointment moved to tomorrow. Instead I took advantage of the cool weather and got a lot of weeding done thanks to my new garden stool. Warmer weather back today. It's been nice doing without the A/C! Really looking forward to fall!!!....later

Dentist Today

I have an appointment to get a deep cleaning on my right side. The left was done last week. It's no big deal but last week it took the Nevadans 6 hours to wear off and that was annoying. Other than that I have nothing.It's another nice morning here. Yesterday was the first day in forever that We didn't need the A/C.Right now I'm enjoying my coffee and a yogurt/raspberry muffin that I made on Sunday..Yum!....later

Lovely Morning

Great temperatures and low humidity this morning. It won't last long, but nice while it's here. Mostly watched Olympics and golf this weekend. I'm starting to get football fever..can't wait. We'll see if the Vols live up to their expectations. Not much else going on here. Happy first full week of kindergarten for Eva. I know she's chomping at the bit to get there!..later

Rain, Glorious Rain!

Yesterday as we were about to leave for Knoxville, the skies opened up, finally! It rained hard for over an hour. Unfortunately it wasn't an all-day rain but I'll take what I can get. We had lunch at Olive Garden and then saw Cafe Society, a Wordy Allen movie.We enjoyed it..a typical Allen film. We mostly watched Olympics last night. I have to say I've enjoyed them but am happy they are almost over. We may get more rain today and cooler weather. Bring it on!!.....later

Happy 78th to my Hubby!!

He's still in bed so haven't talked to him yet. Later we'll head to Knoxville for lunch and a movie. I think we're going to see the Woody Allen movie, Cafe Society. Yesterday we actually got some rain, not much but we had a pretty nice shower for about 20 minutes. It refreshed my memory about what rain looks like.Crazy day at the pool yesterday. Richard and I often have the pool to ourselves or share with 1 or 2 people. I'm not sure if the Olympics are responsible for the influx of people, but it was annoying. More Rain expected today and cooler temps as well due soon. Another happy thing...football soon..can't wait!...later

A Teaser

Last night shortly before I headed to bed we had some boomers and lightning. It's still too dark outside to see if we got any rain but We didn't hear any. I can only hope that eventually we'll get some. I'm sure Louisiana would gladly send it our way! So yesterday I had a dentist appointment and put off getting a deep cleaning, but it was time to bite the bullet and have it done. She did my left back and front yesterday. Next Tuesday I'll have the right side done. I did have Nevadans so it was no big deal. It took 6 hours for the numbness to wear off and my mouth was sore but fine today. Good luck to Muir today on her first day back with students! Eva has her 1st day in kindergarten tomorrow....later

Special Ed Woes for Muir

One thing I always had going for me in Tennessee was a great supervisor who had no problem putting principals in their place. In Virginia my principals were extremely professional and respected my job so we're very supportive. Sorry Muir seems to have idiots in charge. As I hear of some of the things that they have done, I keep waiting for a law suit! On my front I have a dentist appointment this morning and Richard is going grocery shopping. It rained at the gym yesterday but we didn't get a drop. ....later

Welcome Back to Work, Muir

It will be nice reading your blog nice and early! I so know where she is coming from. I just told Richard yesterday that nothing ever changes...special ed continually keeps getting dumped on! Nothing new here..scrappy hot and humid weather with NO rain at our house! I have enjoyed watching the Olympics but am tired of them! Swimming and gymnastics were my favorite events to watch but also enjoyed some women's volleyball now and then and watched Bolt get another gold medal. I also watched the end of golf and very happy that Kutcher medaled. He is such a positive person..always smiling. ....later

Steamy Sunday

Woke up to another hot day. It's the 17th day with temperatures over 90 down here. I am definitely sick of it! We went to Knoxville yesterday, had lunch at Rafferty's, went to Bob's for liquor supplies andPublix for some groceries. I was so happy to get home, change clothes and relax. Last night was the first evening that we didn't watch Olympics. We were both tired so watched some Dr. Pol. He's an amazing vet practicing in Michigan. No plans for today..just keeping cool...later
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I Forgot

Not sure why I didn't post today..I totally forgot. The new A/C is working fine. When we got home from the gym it was too cool in here. I turned it up to 77 and that seems to ideal. They also put the unit on a new pad and put "snow feet" on it. Never heard of such things. ..Anne and Madison are at the Josh Groban concert. At Riverbend. Wish I were with them! That was one of Madison's Christmas gifts. Sunday is her 20th birthday!! Can't believe it. She leaves tomorrow to go back to Clemson. I've been enjoying watching swimming and gymnastics at the Olympics! A welcome change from politics.. Loved seeing Katie Ledecky tonight..she's amazing!!Better late than never for posting....later

The Heat

The heat finally got to me last evening. Hard to explain but I just felt lousy. Went to the gym and did my usual workout and then came home and had zero energy. Thankfully I had put together the pasta salad so dinner was just a matter of dishing it up. I ate very little and just wanted ice water all evening. Richard tried to get me to go back to our nice, cool bedroom but I stayed out here and wasn't really hot, just exhausted. I'm hoping the new A/C will get installed today. Today or tomorrow was the target promise for installation. Enjoying the morning coolness.now. Tonight looks good for meteor showers. PIB should be a great place to watch but knowing my girls are likely to be in bed by the time they appear.....later

A/CUpdate

The guy who put in our furnace and who has serviced our heating and cooling devices came yesterday and gave us a better price than the previous guy. We will be getting installation tomorrow or Friday depending on rain. We have had rain predictions every day but little to no rain. I'm hoping it will hold up now. Due to our ceiling fans, awning and location with lots of trees, it hasn't been a big problem. Still, we do miss the A/C. Olympics again last night. The gymnastics and swimming dominated our evening. USA is leading with 26 medals!! Enjoying my iced coffee this morning....later

A/C Woes

We came home from the gym yesterday to a too warm house. Yep, our a.c. is out and not just out but dead. I called our guy who has worked on it ans the furnace but got no answer so called another guy. He was out here within a short time and gave us the verdict. While he was here our first guy called. We got a 3800. Price from the first guy. The other guy is coming out around noon so we'll see what his price is. Thankfully we have two systems in this house so sleeping was no problem. It really wasn't that bad out here thanks to our ceiling fans. Carolyn is coming to clean this morning. I'll have her do the front of the house first where it's not bad this morning, saving our bedroom for last with coolness. Not much else going on. I'll put our delicious pasta salad together for dinner....later

Olympics

We've been watching a lot of the Olympics and just let me say it's a great relief from watching politics! Yesterday was lots of fun with swimming and gymnastics. Today will likely be more of the same. This morning I'm heading to Wal-Mart. I need to get ingredients for my amazing pasta salad which I'll make tomorrow. It makes a lot so we'll be eating that for much of the week. We actually got some decent rain last evening. It rained for 30 or so minutes which is more than we've gotten in a long time....later

Spokesman Go Week

Ok. I know..why am I going here?!? I really don't have anything to say. Last night Richard actually asked me if I thought any of our kids were into this craze. I looked at him like he was crazy. .which, by the way, he is! Nothing planned for the weekend..watching Olympics. Still no rain for us but Knoxville is getting daily showers. Last night we did hear distant thunder and some far-off lightning....later

More on Crazy Trump

A few months ago I read the Ken Follet trilogy. The first book dealt a lot with WW I but the second book got into the rise on Fascism in Europe. It struck me as our presidential campaign was going on how similar Trump's views were to Moussolini and Fascism. Like Mussolini, Trump's focus is on the worries and fears of the poorly educated and the lies he spouts are widely accepted by these people as truth! Just my interpretation of his campaign..moving on..I finished reading The Nightingale. As difficult as reading it was, it was an excellent read. Now for news in my small world..We came home from the gym yesterday and I raised the garage door and prepared to walk into the garage when spread out across the opening was a 3 or longer snake! I thought it was a black snake but Richard said he was greenish.He tried to coax it out into the driveway with his cane, but it went into the garage instead. No idea if it is still there or left. We left the garage door opened for awhile...later

Too, Too Long

This campaign seems like it has been going on forever! Early voting is going on here so we'll vote soon. It's quiet here this morning with no weather worth reporting. We watched Bear Grills last night and the Nazi Games on PBS. Very interesting. Pulled pork sandwiches last night, taco salad tonight. Nothing planned except a trip to the gym after lunch. Yesterday I got a haircut and got some other stuff taken care of. I want to put a family recipe book together for McClain and Tommy like I did for Nicolas and Ann so got the bones for the project at Michael's.Now I need to get started. Coffee time...later

Worse By the Day

The campaign and Trump gets more ridiculous by the day. I simply cannot get why anyone with half a brain could even consider voting for him.Never under estimate the stupidity of the American people rings truer every day!..Haircut for me today and some errands to run while I'm out. The Daily rain showers keep happening all around this area but keep missing us. I made our hotel reservations for the day of McClain's wedding in October. We'll be staying a few days before and after with Tim and Steff. They live not far from Jeff and Becky...later

The Nightingale

I'm currently reading this book and it is very slow going..it is so dark and heavy that I can only read it is short spurts. I started to tell Richard about it and he stopped me saying he was aware of all of this but didn't want to be reminded. I can't believe the sacrifice that people lived through and somehow survived. Yes, I've read many accounts of all of this before, but this book deals with a young woman, her young daughter, her sister and her Jewish best friend. I will continue to read but it will likely take much longer than usual. ...Schools all around this area starting this week while some have started already.  I'm in a slump, meal wise. I'm running out of ideas..going to the store this morning to pick up a needed items and hoping to get inspired!....later

Finally!

We finally got some decent rain. It didn't last long enough, but was better than nothing. It blew in fast and furiously and then calmed down giving us more before leaving. We did have a bit more throughout the evening. It's foggy this morning. We've been watching The Great British Baking Show on pubs for the last few weeks. It's really fun and fascinating. Richard keeps asking me if I could make what they're making. The answer is a resounding "No!" I'm not a baker and these recipes are extremely complicated. Nothing planned for the weekend....later

Very Positive Democratic Convention

Some great speeches and inspiring thoughts and ideas.Now it's off to the real work of making sure a lying, tweet happy unqualified bombastic ego-maniac never gets near the White House. When Trump said he was being sarcastic about urging Putin to find Hillary's emails I about lost it. Believe me when I say I know sarcasm...that was not sarcasm!! Now on to the weekend..rainy weekend ahead..finally! It's also cooler!!....later

Proud, Outraged, Hopeful...

I was outraged by Trumps comments concerning Putin, but was I surprised? I'm never surprised at what lies and venom come out of his mouth. I am surprised that more Republicans didn't come out to criticize. It demonstrates to me that many Republicans are clueless, even ignorant of how dangerous he is! There were a lot of great speeches last night. It was great to hear Bloomberg's take on Trump, Panetta was great and I was very disappointed at the protests. These are people who really don't understand the dangers we Americans face from the forces of evil in a he world. I did like Kaine in spite of his corny jokes and homey delivery. I think he is authentic..a good man. Biden rocked! Who doesn't love him?!? Lastly. Our President...love him, love hearing him....later

Let's Elect our First Woman as President!

I've been watching the convention every night. The Democratic Convention has been so we'll organized and it makes the Republican Convention look like a joke, a three-ring-circus with a bunch of clowns speaking! Tonight President Obama speaks and he knows how to deliver. Another hot day with no big changes in the forecast....later

Compare

The Democratic Convention got off to a rocky start with Bernie supporters vowing not to support Hillary but some change started with Sarah Silverman. By the end of the evening the protests were at a minimum. There were 3  outstanding speeches starting with Corey Booker. Michelle Obama and Elizabeth Warren followed and Bernie ended the evening. They all rocked!! What a difference in mood and attitude from the doom and gloom message of the Republicans to the positive and hopeful messages given by the Democrats. By the end of the evening a significant number of Bernie supporters were realizing how important it is to support Hillary and defeat Trump!!....later

Bring on the Democrats

I watched none of the Republican Convention but got more than I cared to listen to from the news. I watched 60 Minutes last night and Hillary actually let Tim Kaine speak. I just can't understand how any sane, thinking person could ever vote for Trump. I do understand that Hillary has baggage but as serious as I am about exercising the right to vote, I would skip voting rather than vote for Trump. Moving on..We need rain!! I am so tired of the heat. Alcoa schools start classes today. Blount County starts next Monday and Knoxville starts on the 8th. When I was teaching here we started around the 20th of August. In Virginia we started after Labor Day. ....later

It's Over!

The three-ring-circus also know as The Republican Convention with its third rare speakers is finally over! I didn't watch, but seeing highlights on the news was painful enough. I did enjoy seeing Cleveland and the many sites they showed. As crazy as Trump is,his followers are equally crazy!.. The news here is this awful heat. I'll be heading to the post office this morning and getting a carwash, then heading home to hibernated inside where I can escape the heat. .....later

We Need Rain!I

In addition to needing rain, we need a cool down. This weather wears me out. That being said, I need to get going soon. I need gas and groceries. I'm going to make gazpacho for tonight..Pioneer Woman's recipe so will get those ingredients. I'll be soon glad when this crazy convention ends!! Haven't watched at all but do watch the news and Today and that is enough. Time for coffee and attending to a few things before I head out...later

Day out With the Girls

Linda, Bev and I met for lunch and a movie. We had lunch in Maryville at the Lambert Pie Shop and then headed to the movie..BFG. It was a movie Richard wanted to see, but I thought it looked weird. Well, I was wrong. It was really good..sad, funny, touching. I will say I wouldn't be taking young kids to see it! The evil giants were even ugly and scary to me plus the story wasn't one that young kids would follow. After the movie we headed back to the pie shop for ...pie!. I got coconut cream with a butterscotch/toffee slice to go to share with Richard. I couldn't eat all of my coconut cream so Richard got all of the butterscotch and I finished my coconut last evening. Today Richard has an appointment with his retinologist and then we'll head to Knoxville to get something notarized and then have lunch. ....later

Convention Watching

That is something I did not do! I knew I would hear all about it on Today this morning. Now..try to tell me Melonia did.not lift phrase after phrase from Michelle Obama's speech! Common phrases indeed!!..Very hot here today. No major plans just everyday stuff...later

60 Minutes

I turned it on as usual to find Leslie Stahll interviewing Trump. After just a few minutes I nearly gagged with his bull shit. I changed channels but when I returned he was still blathering on. I am very disappointed in Hillary Clinton but will be voting for her. I just am amazed how the Clintons keep shooting themselves in their feet!! Moving on...I made a peach crumble for dessert last night and it was so delicious!! I found a Martha Stewart recipe on line..easy. I love peaches and usually make a peach cobbler in peach season but liked this more..top with ice cream. While peaches are so delicious I need to make peach ice cream. Hot with storms expected today.....later

Pretty Morning but Hot!!

Brunch is over, puzzle solved, laundry sorted and washing. We're watching British Open and I'm about to make peach crumble for tonight. Nothing much else going on. I made the meatloaf yesterday so not much else to do today except try to keep cool. ....later

What's Next?!

Another attack in France..geez!! I'm so sick, as I'm sure everyone is, of shootings, terrorism etc., but sadly, it's the way of our world now...Yesterday we headed to Sam's to have Richard's hearing aids serviced. I had just a few items to pick up and we were out of there by 9:30 so just headed home. The technician there told him she thought he may have an ear infection so he headed to the walk-in clinic when we got home. She was right so he's on antibiotics now. He was at the clinic for over 3 hours!. Today he is headed to Knoxville to have the ramp put on our car. I'll be running to the store and just getting some things done here. The recent storms all around here are missing us. We got just a wee bit of Rain yesterday evening. Keep safe...later

Early Morning

Headed to Knoxville this morning. Richard has an Appointment at Sam's for his hearing aid. She only had a 9 a.m. and while that didn't suit me, I have to deal with it. I guess we'll have lunch while in town and make a stop at The Fresh Market. ..Watched the Espys last night..lots of tears shed. I'm not 100 percent yet this morning so that's all I have....later

Such Sadness!

Even more disturbing is knowing that these senseless killings have not come to an end. I watched our president deliver yet another memorial speech. ...We had another brief storm yesterday evening with more likely today. Richard has an echocardiogram scheduled for today. We'll have lunch at Chili's after I pick him up. A note to my youngest...I thought you were going to post via pictures on FB! I saw all of 1! I may have to ground you from further trips to Columbus!!....later

Welcome to the World, Baby Mary Jo Bell!!

This is the first grandchild for Becky and Jeff..very exciting. I'm now a great-great aunt! I'll get to meet this beauty in October when we go to McClain's wedding. Busy week..Richard has part 2 of his stress test today, another appointment tomorrow and getting the ramp put on our car on Friday. I was hoping to finish up my dressing room today, but Carolyn is coming to clean so will tie up the vacuum cleaner which may delay me. Pleasant morning here but will get nasty later...later

I'm Back

Didn't post over on he weekend and then had Kindle problems. It's fixed but not much to say. Richard is at hospital getting a stress test. It's part of tests to present to his cardiologist at his upcoming appointment. My dressing room is heading to the finish line. I still have some work to do but I should finish by tomorrow. Cleaning lady coming tomorrow so I'll stay out of her way and finish up. Dreary day with rain expected this afternoon. Making chicken and noodles for dinner at Richard's request....later

Holy Cow

Woke up to the tragedy in Dallas. I certainly understand how police brutality is becoming out of control and people are at their wits end about it. What are police all over the country thinking. I continue to respect police while very aware that many unfit people enter the police forces. There are way too many police who are psychologically the wrong fit for this type of job. Moving on...We watched The Suffragette last night. British women paved the way for other countries to respect the rights of women. I don't think the countries following saw the brutality of women that Great Britain did. Thank you ladies who suffered so that future generations had our deserved rights..The rainy pattern continues down here....later

Three Ring Circus

That's what this campaign is like..please save me! Watching the news shows is just plain painful and I find myself muting most of it. The Daily Show last night was funny but sad. He opened by saying it was good Trump and Hillary were running against each other because if either one had a different opponent they would be gone! So true. Moving along...I will spend  good chunk of today working in my dressing room. Richard is taking the car to have a hitch put on it to receive the ramp he is vegging for his mobility scooter. Rainy weather here....later

Uncharged

I was in the middle of my blog when I got disconnected. I was commenting on the Hillary fiasco..Damn..can the Clintons quit shooting themselves in the foot?!? She just got a greatest from President Obama and then this. That being said, I will still vote for her because in spite of her baggage, she will still stand up to the job. There is no way in shell I could or would EVER vote for Trump!!!I don't blame the Rebublicans for being passed, but thankfully, all they have is Trump....later

Damn..Stung

I put food out for hummingbirds and put my hand on railing of deck and got stung. When I lifted my hand I saw nothing, but I've been stung before and no pain like this. That was 30 minutes ago and the pain hasn't subsided at all. It feels like there is a knife in my hand. I called my Dr. but she's not in yet but left a message. I'll ice it and go from there. Richard has appointment this morning so I'll be dropping him off later. Yesterday I started in on my dressing room. I just made a small dent and the room looks like a tornado went through, but I have 3 bikes to drop off at Karma this morning. I'm getting rid of all of my crafting stuff and there is some really good stuff in those boxes. ....later

Happy Fourth of July

Looks like it could be iffy weather wise. We had quite a bit of Rain last evening and we welcomed it. We need more rain and we have no outdoor plans. I will be doing my ribs, but I do that in the oven. I have been making these ribs for several years and they are easy, but somewhat time consuming. I put the rub on yesterday and wrapped them up to hang out in the frig. The cooking process takes several hours at a low temp and turning and adding liquid on and off. It's easy but you have to be around. The first few times I made these, I did them on the grill. That was too labor intensive and required frequent moving them into different positions. Then I got smart and did them in the oven. Much easier but with the same degree of deliciousness. Off that subject to Prairie Home Companion which we listened to over the weekend. The last show and it did not disappoint. I also finished a yummy book...All Summer Long by Dorthea Benton Frank. I have read all of her books which center on the low country of South Carolina and I always love them.Now I'm thinking way back in time to "not so safe Fourths"for my family. I was not hurt, but not so for the kids and their father. One year it was a piggy back race for father and son. Jim tripped on a storm grate and he and Trip went flying. Both ended up in the era with multiple scrapes. The following year Jim and young Muir fell from a horse when they ran into a tree branch. Also a trip to the era. Muir was uninjured but Jim ended up with stitches. After that year I determined we should stay in bed for the holiday. No more disasters, thankfully!....later

And There is Much More...

I was at PIB when I needed to talk to the priest. He directed me to Father Shappelle whom he had first met in the seminary. Then I got involved in St. Leo's where Father Shappelle was the pastor. My kids and I got involved in many things there. I made many friends and eventually Anne and I got involved in the music. The parish house was always open to kids from the neighborhood and felt totally coming in for a drink of water, a basketball or just a rest. They were always welcome. I'm sure anyone who knew Father could relate similar stories. I kept in touch and looked forward to his letter which always came after his busy Christmas duties were over. I got my last one this January...

Father James Shappelle

I just learned yesterday that Father Shappelle had died. I can't begin to say how much he meant to me and my kids. All four of them celebrated their first communion under his instruction and he brought us all such joy and guidance. He was an avid biker and both Anne and Trip accompanied him with other young ones on the 48 mile bike trip to Miami. His Sunday homilies were always so inspiring and I never saw him turn anyone away from any thing they asked of him. He thoroughly enjoyed life and people. He will be missed by so many and this I know. If there is a heaven, he is, without any doubt, at the right hand of God....later

Beautiful Morning

We really have nothing planned for today but I do have a few chores. I want to wash and change bed linen and we need to get the tv that we moved to my dressing room operational. Richard got some pretty, ripe Grainger County tomatoes on Thursday so we'll have BLTs for dinner. We quit listening to Prairie Home Companion several years ago when it became tiresome to us. Tonight will be the final one with Garrison Keilor so we'll listen to that. Chances for rain down here are getting slimmer by the hour for this Fourth weekend....later

Wine in Grocery Stores

It took a long time for Tennessee to catch up with most of the country. When we moved here in 1989 you could only buy 3.2 beer in Grocery stores. Other spirits were sold in liquor.stores and our county had no liquor stores. Buying wine or other alcohol meant driving to Knoxville. Liquor stores finally came about 5 years ago and wine sales start this morning. We're finally catching up! So today is wear orange in remembrance of Pat Summit. I'll wear my grey and orange Tennessee shirt. My only all orange shirt is a Clemson shirt so that won't do today. Plans for the weekend..quiet weekend at home.. I'll do ribs for the Fourth. Be safe everyone!!...later

Squirrels

Time to rant about the squirrels that cause me much frustration. They are a real problem all winter when they eat us out of house and home over the sunflower seeds which are meant for the birds. When Wolfie was alive he kept them at bay but Baxter totally ignored them even though I tried to get him to chase them. Now they are becoming over a real problem over the hummingbird feeder deer. The squirrel jumps on the feeder and makes it swing spilling the food out. Lately I have been taking the feeder inside at night and when we leave for the gym but it's hard to catch them in the act. Whatever happened to eating acorns?! We have lots of oak trees and acorns all around. On another front..We got a new and larger tv for our bedroom and Richard and I installed it on Sunday. It is so much easier to see ..larger and brighter. The other one was put in my dressing room. A lovely, cool morning here and I slept until 7. ....later

78!!

I had a lovely birthday. I woke up and came out to the greatroom   to find a vase of yellow daisies..perfect for a June day. There was also a gift bag with fun socks Richard knows I like socks so I'll have cute ones for cold weather. Of course a card accompanied all of this and I can always count on a risque message written in. This year it was from a lyric from a Duran Duran song. Several years ago I was driving home fromBethany School with Maggie and Muir when this song came on. I thought he was singing, "If you're lonely in your nightgown let me in." That wasn't what he was singing, but my version stuck with me and that was written on my card! Later in the morning I felt the need to clear my head so took off driving to the mountains. I came back refreshed. We went to dinner in Knoxville..Bonefish. I had lobster and Richard had mussels. Now for a note about Pat Summit. She was so loved and such a humble person who will be sorely missed. I do think that with her prognosis, it was a blessing that she died as soon as she did. It is a sad time in Big Orange Country!!...later

Finally!!!!

You can't believe what I've gone through to finally get to this blog. I made 2 calls to Amazon without help. I finally did it myself. Okay birthday time for me but not feeling like celebrating. This morning Trip and Jj called and sang to me and Anne sent me a nice message and got a text from Tim. I felt at sixes and sevens so jumped in my car and drove to the mountains. That unclogged my brain. The mountain laurel is in bloom but The Little River is way low. I'd suggest a picnic at Metcalf Bottoms but will wait until after the holiday to do that. We're going to Bonefish for dinner tonight....later

Anxiously Waiting

Anxious to hear from my kids about any damage from last night's storms in Ohio. All is calm here but heat continuing here. I'm concerned and suspicious of what's happening with my hummingbird feeder. I put new food out on Tuesday and have observed them drinking frequently. Last evening I was surprised at how far down it was and the feeder was swinging. A short time later it was close to empty. At that time I saw a squirrel. I chased him away and quickly made more food. I just added no food and will keep watch today. That being said, we're going into Knoxville to see Finding Dory and have lunch so I'll be gone for a big chunk of the day. And that's all folks...later

I'm Back

After spending over an hour with Amazon and trying everything possible, I had finally had it so told them I would try later. They were supposed to call back but never did. We went to gym and when we got back I tried again to connect and was successful. So here I am with nothing to say. I will say I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that my peeps in Ohio stay safe...
later

Humidity is Back

With the first day of summer came heat and humidity. Richard has his appointment with the pulmonary therapist today and I'll drive home but since he'll be about 2 hours, I'll come home and then come back for him. I had thought we would see.Finding Dory today but had forgotten about the appointment. We'll do that sometime soon. Nothing much else going on....later

A Great Win!!

So happy for the Cavs and for Cleveland!! I was so nervous but happy I stayed up for it..take that Warriors! Another pleasant morning here. Recently we have not needed the a/c until the afternoon. Nothing planned except the gym today. I think we'll go to Knoxville tomorrow for lunch and to see Finding Dory. ....later

Happy Father's Day

However, no fathers read my blog but those who do read it can wish the Dads my sentiments. My own dad died at 52..way too young! He was the absolutely best dad of all days He gave both Mr sister and me unconditional love and support in all we did. My own children's father loved my dad and I only wish he had been more like him....Last night we had a wonderful evening with an old friend whom we hadn't seen in a long time. She also brought her sweet dog with her. We hope to get together much more often. Ok..We seem to have a hornet problem. I have ushered about a dozen out the door this morning and I can't figure how they are getting in. On another irritating note..once again we didn't get our NY Times this morning. I called and was told they would get one out to us but nothing so far!!....later

Lovely Morning

Low humidity and pleasant temperature is making this a very nice start to this day. I'll be preparing food today for a dinner guest. On the menu will be a cheese board, Cobb salad and raspberry mousse. I'm being cautiously optimistic about Trump's slide but just hope it continues. It's Saturday so that means smoothie morning for Richard and me. Will put them together soon and then get groin on the mousse...
Later

Cavs!

Great win for the Cavaliers!! I actually fell asleep before the end but happy to see they won when I got up. Today I'll be doing some house cleaning as well as doing the deck. It's supposed to be cooler with less humidity today and that's a good thing. Nothing much else going on here today....later

Very Busy Day

Lots to do tomorrow so will post tonight. I have a haircut at 9 followed by grocery shopping with several stops after that. We are having a old friend to dinner on Saturday. We haven't seen her for a long time but Richard worked with her in time share. She has an amazing farm called the Peaceful Kingdom with dogs, cats, birds, donkeys, horses and God knows what else. She has rescued raccoons, possums and other animals in need. She'll be bringing one of her dogs with her. I can't wait to see her. She is a hoot!! On a totally different front..I am very heartened to know that both of our Republican senators have moved away from the whacko Trump..Corker and Alexander. Maggie..have a great last day at PIB.....later

Stormy Evening

So last evening we finally got relief from the heat with a loud storm and rain coming from every which way. It didn't last long but after the rain stopped so did our electricity. It went off at 6:30 and didn't come back on until 8:30 which made for a pretty boring evening. More expected today but hopefully we won't lose our power. Nicer weather expected to follow. Gym today which means we have to get there early to avoid the onslaught of kids in the pool for my he summer camp....later
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Ho Hum Day

Not anything exciting today. I have a PT appointment this morning and Richard has an afternoon appointment with the cardiologist which I need to drive him to. Watched most of the BB game last night but just learned of the results. It made me happy the Cavs won but not much hope for more wins. Heat and possible rain here today. Looking forward to Finding Dory this weekend...later

Orlando

The news speaks for itself..beyond words. Heat Here for a few more days before relief and rain. Nothing going on here..gym this afternoon. Asian salad for dinner. The apple crisp I made yesterday was extra delicious!!! It is Dee Drummond's recipe and made in an iron skillet..very easy. Shower time..later...

Not the Best Week

We had a few hitches. One was the movie on Tuesday that we left after 30 minutes and the other was lunch at Outback on Thursday, but the worst was yesterday. We went into Knoxville to do grocery shopping at Publix. We got everything on our list and when I went to pay I discovered I didn't have my wallet. We had to go back home, get it and return. They had put everything back in my cart and saved it until we returned. As soon as I got in the car I knew exactly where my wallet was. When we went to the gym on Friday I threw my wallet in my gym bag. As we left for the store Richard asked me if he needed his wallet and I told him he didn't. Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose! On a totally different note...one of our senators is Bob Corker. While he is a Republican, he has been fairly moderate and I liked him okay. That all changed when he came out in support of Trump! Heat again which means a/c time. ...later

Campaign

Like most people I am tired of this long campaign. That being said,  I am excited to know that Hillary will have full support from our president, Elizabeth Warren, and Bernie. I did watch a lot last night. I still can't get my head around politicians who hate everything that comes out of Trump's mouth and yet will support him. Ignoring one's values is just wrong and very disappointing. Oh well...On a different note we saw The Jungle Book yesterday. It was very good even though I cried in several spots. Getting hot today but no rain in the forecast. We'll head to the gym after lunch...later

Way to go Cavs

So happy to get a win in Cleveland! Another gorgeous morning here. We may head to Knoxville later to see The Jungle Book. Nothing much else is on our agenda. I would very much like to make a big dent in clearing out my dressing room. I have a lot to get rid of!! It's hard to know where to start.....later

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Love and Friendship

We had lunch in Knoxville and then to the movies. As soon as it started I knew Richard was having trouble hearing from the females in the movie because I couldn't pick up on every word. It was a combination of British accent, fast speaking and the pitch of their voices. About 30 minutes into the movie he asked me if I knew what was going on. I did but I asked him if he wanted to leave. He said ,"no" but when I said I wasn't that into it we decided to leave. Our second choice for a movie was The Jungle Book and that would have been a better choice. We may actually go to see it tomorrow. After leaving we headed to Trader Joe's. I found a jar of clarified butter. It wasn't even refrigerated. I'm not sure when I'll use it but I couldn't resist getting it. I also got a late jar of cold brewed coffee which I plan to use for iced coffee. I'm anxious to do that and will make some as soon as the heat returns. This morning it is downright chilly here but warming to about 77 this afternoon. I have a pt appointment at 10....later

Clean House

Unsure of plans for today. Richard was wavering about movie for today so I do need to make a stop at the post office and pharmacy. So today I turned in to Morning Joe when I got up. I am heartened by many Rebublicans finally realizing that Trump has gone too far and they see a looming disaster. The consensus seems to be that most respect Paul Ryan and very surprised he is still supporting Trump. Apparently Trump is listening to no one..family and staff included! Nice day here with low humidity...later

Overcast Morning

The rain is gone but no sunshine here. Carolyn will be here later to clean. I went through magazines last night and need to get them out in the trash this morning. I also need to go through the freezer up here. I know there are some things I need to get rid of. What I really need to get to is my dressing room. There are things I don't know what to do with. I have lots of materials I used when scrapbooking that I won't use again. How to get rid of them is a mystery. Now it's time for coffee....later

Kindle Problem

My Kindle was dead yesterday so I couldn't post. I'm posting early today while it's working.It still isn't fully charged so who knows how long I can use it. Not much going around here. It is really foggy here this morning. We had some rain yesterday but not much. Didn't watch much of the basketball game last night. The Cavs were pretty far behind when I went to bed and haven't seen a score yet today. ....later

Pretty Morning

Nice now but heat and rain coming later. Yesterday we had lunch at Raffertys eating on their deck. After that we headed to Sam's to stock up on essentials. I still have the ground beef to separate into individual portions. Today I have a pt appointment. That's about it for my exciting life...: Ho Hum....later

Relaxing Holiday

Nice, relaxing day with some chores but mostly just relaxing. I did get the laundry done. Today we may go to Knoxville and Sam's. In need A bunch of stuff but haven't really made a good list . Looks like a warm day approaching the 90s. Synchronous Fireflies are back in the Smokies. It's quite an annual event down here. You have to get on line to get a pass to see this event and less than 200 passes are given. A few years ago we did get a pass and boarded the bus to take us there but had to turn around when weather intervened so we have never seen them....later

Happy Memorial Day

We drove home  yesterday  with light traffic and very few trucks. We just relaxed  at home, watched  the Memorial.Day concert.   on the Mall in D. C.last  night. It was very moving with some  great music. No real plans for today. At some  point I'll  do the  laundry and figure  out  dinner. We.did have quite the nice rain last night.....later

Wednesday Plans

Heating up down here. Richard and I both have appointments today and after mine I'll gas up the car and get a car wash. I need to pack for the weekend in Cincinnati and get gifts wrapped. We'll take off tomorrow morning sometime around nine. We may get some rain this afternoon or evening. Oh, I have to remember to fill the hummingbird feeder. Now time for some coffee and biscotti. I'll also make some carrot, raisin, walnut muffins in a bit..something different for breakfast. This morning I'll have a fried bread waffle..yum!....later

Up Early

Got up about 5:20 which is about the same time as the phone rang yesterday but I was wide awake this morning. I need to go to the store to pick up a few things this morning. Another pt appointment yesterday with new exercises added. Summer weather is quickly approaching..in the mid 80s here today with 90s coming by week's end. We'll leave for Cincinnati Thursday morning. I have gifts to wrap to take along. ....later

Rude Awakening

Our phone rang at 5:30 waking us up. It only rang once so the caller I'd didn't register. We do need to drop off my car this morning to get the window fixed so need to get going soon. I have a pt appointment at eleven and sometime in the next few days I need to get some graduation cards and gifts. Now it's time to get dressed and get Richard up...later

Late Due to no Connection

I've been on Kindle Help for 40 minutes and finally got connected. I don't know what happened but it took forever to connect. So..yesterday had my first PT appointment. They hooked me up to heat and electric stimulation for 20 minutes and then on the bike for 10 minutes followed by other exercises. Also, my assessment showed nice improvement thanks to exercises I've been doing. I have two appointments next week. Today I'll head to Lowe's to get a mixed flower arrangement to give to my neighbor who watered my plants while we were gone. Rain expected some today. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed for a nice day tomorrow in Columbus. It is Eva's fifth birthday and a big party is planned with a facepainter coming, a popcorn machine, pinatta, etc!! They better post lots of pictures!!!....later

Back to Normal

Unpacked bags yesterday but left the bags down here because we'll be packing for Cincinnati next week. Richard will be grocery shopping today and I have a P.T. appointment this afternoon. I need to come up with something for dinner tonight and so far I have no ideas. I also have books due today at library so will do that when I go out this afternoon....later

Home Sweet Home

Got home.yesterday shortly after 4. It was a fine drive home with no issues and made good time. We started out with sprinkles of rain and that continued throughout Virginia but sun appeared when we crossed into Tennessee. We unpacked the car but only essentials unpacked so lots to get done today. I also need to figure out dinner for tonight. Tim, Stef and Caroline had a busy Monday so I told them I would do dinner. Richard and I went to the store and I got the ingredients to put cobb salad together. Looks like a decent day weather wise today. I guess lots of rain here while we were gone.....later

At Tim's

Very stressful drive to get here!!  Got off on time then to Woods Hole where to signs telling us how to get to 28 so wasted some time then. Next got lost in Providence thanks to the Google map. Wasted about 40 minutes then but on our way again. Onto Connecticut..started out fine but as we got closer to NYC, heavy traffic and stop and go progress. A stop for lunch and one for gas and on our way. No other big delays but concerned about impending darkness as neither of us see well to drive in darkness. I am better than Richard but no place to pull off to change drivers. We made it around 9. We want to get home but can't face another 8 hrs. drive so will tackle that tomorrow when rain is expected....

The 8:15 Ferry

We catch the ferry at 8:15 and then head to Tim's. Not sure if we'll head to Tennessee tomorrow or Tuesday. I'm for leaving tomorrow but we'll see. Safe travels to the Hankes and Egberts as they head home from PIB!!.....later

Last Day in the Vineyard

Today will be a day of laundry and packing. We catch the ferry at 8:15 tomorrow morning. Yesterday I checked out the shops around here..too rich for my purse..$42. For t-shirts, $115.  for cotton tops, etc. I ended up having lunch and buying a People magazine. So much for shopping in Martha's Vineyard. We have enjoyed being here and The Harborside Inn is a first class place to stay!! We will be happy to get home but first stop at Tim and Stef's for the night. I did talk to Madison yesterday. She's getting adjusted to being home after 3 1/2 months in Africa.....later

Running Dry

I think we have covered this island as much as we care to do. Yesterday we went back to Oak Bluff and had lunch at a pub. The food was good as was the beer. I would have had a lobster roll but wasn't about to pay $25. for it. The other issue was a terrible waitress so our tip reflected it. Today I'm going to walk around our area and check out the shops. Richard wants me to have the day to myself but not sure if I'll take advantage of it. Madison did get in last night but got in later than expected and I didn't get to talk to her. Hopefully, I'll catch up with her later today. ....later

Nothing..

Posted late yesterday and just got up. I'm not sure what or where we'll go today so this is it. It is supposed to be in the 70s....later

Yesterday

Caught the ferry to Chappaquadick which is touted as an affluent suburb of Edgartown. There is nothing there except so-so houses. The 5 minute ferry ride was a waste of time. After that we needed to eat lunch but several places weren't opened yet for the season. Other places had no place to park so we ended up getting deli sandwiches and beer and going to the beach and eating. When we got back all parking on our street was closed so I dropped Richard off and parked in the allocated lot two blocks up. The walk back was so pretty with lovely houses and gardens of spring flowers. This morning walking up to get the car was much of the same. They closed parking on this street to paint lines. They are done and I was able to park right in front of our place. We explored Oak Bluff and had a yummy fish lunch and then more exploring. We have now done the whole island so not sure what we'll do for the next two days. I know Saturday will be laundry day and packing..We love this unit..very tastefully decorated with careful thought to every thing! We liked Oak Bluff more than Edgartown. Easier to get around and park. So far I'm doing the driving although Richard drove the whole way up. ...later

Up Island

Many years ago I read Anne Rivers Sidons book, Up Island. I loved it and it started with me so I knew I had to go there. Yes was the day. It is in the far south west corner of the island but due to all of the one way streets in Edgartown we just kept going in circles. Finally, we came to a lady working in her garden and she sympathized with us and told us what to do. She gave us a spring of mortgaging made our car smell delightful and we were on our way. A lady at our inn told us the town of Menemsha was a fishing village and had great lobster rolls. We headed there. It turned into a most fun place. The Menemsha Fish Market is a bare bones structure run by a family. The father was a typical New England type and his daughter took care of us. We both got lobster rolls..very, very delicious, but she was also delicious!. Twenty and getting married Saturday. While there a tour bus full of characters came in and we talked with several of them. After they left two local women came in and each ordered 2 steamed lobsters. Richard astounded that they are 2 lobsters each! They were real characters and we had fun talking to them! After that we drove around the end of that area and headed back getting here after 3. Nice and sunny weather again today. We'll head to Chappaquidick at the northeast tip of the island today...later

Great Sleep

We both slept likebabies last night. Chilly this morning but warming up. The sun actually appeared yesterday late afternoon. Hated the ending of The Good Wife! Madam Secretary ended well. Not sure what we'll do today..likely explore. Richard's knee is okay..probably just a twist..too much driving. ...later

Finally Here

Yesterday was a long day but finally arrived in Seekonk to spend the night. We stayed at a Motel 6 and it was fine and super clean but the best thing was that it was next to a restaurant called "99". I had a delicious lobster chowder and Richard had fish and Chips..also delicious. Got up this morning and drove to Woods Hole to catch the ferry but stopped for breakfast at Friendly's. Our reservation for the ferry was for 11:30 but we drove just to see where it was and they put us on the 9:30. We drove around the island, had lunch and bought some foods and then checked in. Our room is very nice and looking forward to this crazy, wet weather to clear out. On a down note..as we were unpacking, Richard twisted his knee and it might be sprained..Damon..we don't need this!!

At Tim and Stef's

Traffic on I-81 was awful! Never in my life have I seen so many trucks!. We're here now and will just hang out today. Tim and Stef are both at work. I'm doing laundry as my deaf husband failed to put a change of clothes in our overnight bag and yes, I told him too but even when he can hear me, he doesn't listen! Oh the trials of wives!!...later

Crazy To-Do List

I have so much to get done today that it's making me crazy. On top of all that the doctor wants us to continue for two more weeks on Richard's burnt toes treatment. That means I have to tote those supplies with us. I guess I'll get it all done..I usually do. That being said I need to have some coffee and get busy...later

Early Appointment

Richard's appointment this morning is at 8:15 and after that we'll go to Knoxville and Sam's and then lunch. On the way home we need to stop at Auto Zone and get the batteries Richard ordered for his mobility scooter. Wednesday will be a day of packing, etc. We'll be at Tim's for two days. Hoping for nice weather while traveling. No coffee this morning..completely out but after I drop Richard off at his appointment I'll be getting some with a biscuit....later

Busy Week

We leave on Thursday for leg one of our vacation to Martha's Vineyard. We'll be spending two nights at Tim's. Today I have some ironing and other stuff to deal with. Tomorrow Richard has an 8:15 appointment and following that a trip to Sam's. Richard's hearing aid needs something. Also his mobile scooter isn't working so he has that to deal with. It's always something!!...later

Another Beautiful Day

It's lovely now but rains coming in tomorrow. Today we're heading to Knoxville mainly for lunch at Raffertys. I'm determined to change my order to something different.  I always get the same thing..potato soup and chicken salad. We'll see if I can keep my resolve. Other than that I want to stop at Kohls and Richard wants to stop at the fresh market. Nothing else going on and it's coffee time....later

Trip to the Doctors

Richard woke up yesterday with a swollen foot and redness on one toe. I was on my way out when he showed me. I told him to call the doctor and off I went. When I got home I asked him what the doctor said. He didn't say because Richard hadn't called. Then he was just going to call the appointment desk but I told him to call his doctor direct. When he did they wanted to see him immediately. He got a shot of antibiotics, a new dressing on the foot and rxs to boot. He has to soak foot in Epson salt solution once a day, New dressing daily and an antibiotic. He also got a task task from the nurse. Hopefully he's on the right road. Rains last night. It started shortly after I got to bed. I think today should be nice. We'll be leaving one week from today so I need to start planning. I need a haircut and also need to find someone to water plants while we're gone....later
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Planting Finished!

That being said, Richard wants to do another pot for the back deck. I told him to go for it..buy the plant, do the planting..We'll see. We are kind of expected to get some rain later this afternoon. I closed the awning in anticipation of possible storms last night but none came. Trying now to come up with something easy to make for dinner. Finally got my first book from our library to read on my kindle. J. A. Janice is one of my favorite mystery writers. I placed Claw back on hold a few months ago and finally got it. The book is really good as are all of her books which I have read. I have 3-4 other books on hold from the library. Time for more coffee....later